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There is no standard legal definition of domestic abuse and different definitions of domestic violence and domestic abuse are used. The cross-government definition of domestic violence and abuse was introduced on 31st March 2013 and defines domestic violence as:

“any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. The abuse can include, but is not limited to:

Psychological

Physical

Sexual

Financial

Emotional

Controlling behaviour is a range of acts designed to make a person subordinate and/or dependent by isolating them from sources of support, exploiting their resources and capacities for personal gain, depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance and escape and regulating their everyday behaviour.

Coercive behaviour is: an act or a pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten their victim.”*

*This definition includes so called ‘honour’ based violence, female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage, and is clear that victims are not confined to one gender or ethnic group.

If you think you have been a victim of domestic violence then WTB Solicitors can help. Please call us on 0161 224 3311.